What does the report contain?
A useful report starts by defining the project, elements and design version assessed. It then sets out the assumptions, information, loads, calculation models and checks. Conclusions must be traceable to that basis. Calculations without a clear relationship to your house or design are therefore difficult to use.
Calculations and drawings belong together
Calculations substantiate the structural behaviour; drawings record where elements and connections belong. A contractor usually needs both. An architectural floor plan provides input but does not replace a structural drawing. Agree whether connections, foundations and temporary arrangements form part of the brief.
What does the document not prove?
The report assesses the described situation. It does not prove that concealed elements exactly match an old drawing or that construction has been carried out correctly. Discrepancies found during construction must be reported to the responsible adviser. The permit decision is also separate from preparing calculations.
Practical checklist
- Check the project address and revision
- Read which elements are outside scope
- Share the final documents with the contractor
- Keep changes and answered questions
Never use example calculations for a similar home as the construction basis for your own project.
Preparing your own project
Would you like this assessed for your home? See our information about houses. It explains which information is relevant to that brief. The project check helps you prepare your enquiry.
Unsure about a term? The structural glossary provides plain-language explanations and technical context. To understand how the documents are organised, explore our fictional example project .
Editorial guidance • updated 2 October 2026. General information, not a project-specific assessment.